In the novel, "The Hobbit," Gandalf represents a true father figure because; he protects the dwarves and Bilbo, Bilbo and the dwarves depend on Gandalf, and Gandalf is older and wiser than the dwarves and Bilbo. These three traits of Gandalf's make him a father figure because they are typical father-like traits in many novels. Along with his three traits, Gandalf also has a good standing with the dwarves and Bilbo and all of them like Gandalf. .
The first and probably most noticeable father-like trait is that Gandalf protects Bilbo and the dwarves. This is the most noticeable trait because most fathers are protective of their family. Gandalf saves them more than once, and each time he makes wise decisions to get them out of trouble.
The second father-like trait of Gandalf's is that Bilbo and the dwarves depend on him. This trait of Gandalf's is obvious, but not as noticeable ad him protecting the dwarves and Bilbo. One reason this is a father-like trait of Gandalf's is most children depend on their parents to give them a place to live and for food to eat. In the novel, the dwarves and Bilbo depend of Gandalf to show them the way to the Lonely Mountain and to help make the best decisions.
Gandalf's third father-like trait is that he is older and wiser than the dwarves and Bilbo. Because of this the dwarves and Bilbo turn to him fir advice and guidance. Another result of Gandalf's age and wisdom is the dwarves and Bilbo look up to him and see him as a figure of power. Because of Gandalf's cleverness, they are saved from the trolls.
A true father figure exhibits certain traits. Chief among these are age and wisdom, leadership and mentorship, and protectiveness. Gandalf the Grey exhibits all of these traits steadily and continuously toward Bilbo and the dwarves throughout the novel "The Hobbit." It is for this reason that Gandalf is the primary father figure in this novel. .